MUSIC SOCIETY: The society offers a wide variety of mainly live performances to its members. This months entertainment was a concert by Julia and Shane Day from the band Part Thyme on violin and accordion covering two main themes of dance music. In the first half of the programme they discussed the parallel developments of dance music in the English Courts and on the village green from the 16th century onwards. Members heard a good selection of tunes by Purcell and some used in the film Pride and Prejudice. This was followed by some lively jigs and reels in which there was much tapping of feet amongst the audience. This session was completed with a demonstration of clog dancing by Julia much to the delight of the audience.

The musicians then gave a musical tour covering the British Isles and played tunes with a wide range of tempo from beautiful airs from Scotland with wild Irish jigs. This was followed by some tunes from North America illustrating the influence on music, taken there by early settlers from the British Isles, of local folk music. All joined in singing the famous Shaker hymn Tis Good To Be Simple which forms the basis of the famous tune The Lord of the Dance, a rousing finale completed a thoroughly enjoyable evening of music.

The next live concert at the Methodist Church, New Street, in Shipston will be given by the Aquarelle Guitar Group on Friday, May 20 at 7.30pm. Guests and new members will as usual be welcome. Contact 01608 661808.